Classical Arts

Delving into the roots of tradition

When Mrinalini Sarabhai moved to Ahmedabad in 1942, classical dance was not seen as something that “respectable” women did. Through the establishment of Darpana and the Darpana Performing Group’s performances that drew rave reviews from around the world, Mrinalini and Darpana changed that perception of classical dance forever.

Since 1949, Darpana has been India's premiere institution bringing the ancient art of Indian classical dance and music to audiences in more than 95 countries around the world.

Darpana has also published several books on Indian classical dance, including original translations from palm leaf manuscripts on dance and music and the first standard textbook in English on both Bharata Natyam and Kuchipudi. These and other books and DVDs can be purchased through the Darpana Store.